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This list of suggested resources has been compiled over the years from what Cana Groups have found particularly helpful. Discuss as a group, and consider with prayer and spiritual direction, what you would like to use as your formation and make a selection. The great news is, it's all good.
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ALWAYS GOOD
Regardless of time or place, some things are always good. These selections are good for any group at any time.
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There is no better way to draw closer to Christ than the study of Scripture. We recommend starting with one of the Gospels.
The Catechism is an incredible resource if your group wants to learn more about the teachings of the Catholic Church and discover why we believe what we believe.
As Catholics we are blessed to have the Saints to intercede for us, and to provide examples we can learn from. From priests and religious to lay mothers and fathers, there are plenty of Saints whose lives will provide fruitful reflection for your group and your marriages.
This document from the USCCB will delve more deeply into what it means to be a Catholic family in the world today, and provide insight into how to navigate the waters of everyday life as a faithful family.
PAPAL DOCUMENTS
Over the centuries our Popes have written beautiful works on a number of topics. Below you will find a selection of Papal Encyclicals, Exhortations, and, Letters we have found to be fruitful sources of discussion. These are all available online.
AMORIS LAETITIA
The Joy of Love
EVANGELIUM VITAE
The Gospel of Life
CHRISTIFIDELES LAICI
The Lay Members of Christ
FAMILIARIS CONSORTIO
The Role of the Christian Family in the Modern World
GUADETE ET EXSULTATE
On the Call of Holiness in Today’s World
DEUS CARITAS EST
God is Love
SPE SALVI
Saved in Hope
CARITAS IN VERITATE
Charity of Truth
EVANGELII GAUDIUM
Joy of the Gospel
LUMEN FIDEI
Light of the Faith
LAUDATO SI
On Care for Our Common Home
JPII LETTER TO FAMILIES
THEOLOGY
As Catholic we believe in both Faith and Reason. Below are theological selections that will provide insight into the Church’s theology around marriage and the family. These are easily accessible and there are several good summaries on the topics.
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SPIRITUALITY
We not only want to help form our minds, but also our hearts. Here are a number of works and topics we recommend that will help in developing your spiritual life and deepen your daily relationship with God. Some of these are available online, others will need to be purchased or borrowed from your local library.
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THE SPIRITUAL EXERCISES
St. Ignatius of Loyola
PRACTICAL FAMILY LIFE
Marriage requires both prayer and action, knowledge and day-to-day application and integration. Here are topics your group can address regarding the day-to-day challenges in married life. For specific resources, consult your local ACU chapter.
Natural Family Planning
Raising Children and Young Adults
Communication
Handling Finances
Psychology of Woman and Man
Apostolados in the Family
Family Time Management
Family discipline, responsibilities and organization
Family traditions, fun, and adventure
Family Apostolates Together
Current Events
VIDEO SERIES
In addition to countless books and writings, there are a number of video series we highly recommend. Some of these are available online, others will need to be purchased or borrowed from your local library.
THE CATHOLICISM SERIES
Bishop Barron
WORD ON FIRE
Bishop Barron
AUGUSTINE INSTITUTE
FORMED
ADDITIONAL AUTHORS
In addition to everything above, we also highly recommend anything written by the following authors: